Drug Charges Attorney Columbia, South Carolina
Take your case seriously. Contact Columbia, SC drug defense lawyer Matt Bodman.
Drug crimes in South Carolina can have serious consequences. If you are found guilty of a drug charge, you could be fined thousands of dollars and spend months or years in jail. In addition, many of your prized possessions - your house, your car and other assets - could be seized and confiscated by the government. And after you are released from prison, you might not be able to find a job or work in your chosen profession. The conviction may damage your personal relationships. Your life as you know it could change forever.
A drug charge also can also have a negative impact on your life if you are a college student. Attorney Matt Bodman knows that students at the University of South Carolina and other area schools sometimes make mistakes or they are innocent and need to get the charge dismissed. Matt Bodman provides skilled representation for students and others facing drug charges.
Criminal cases involving illegal drugs can be complicated. Understanding the charges against you can be confusing. The evidence might even seem overwhelming. That's why many people think there's nothing they can do. Don't be so sure. To arrange a free consultation, contact an experienced attorney right away. South Carolina drug offense lawyer Matt Bodman is a former prosecutor who knows how the other side operates.
Attorney Bodman understands the seriousness of such charges. A former Richland County assistant solicitor, he spent five years prosecuting people for various crimes. Nowadays, he puts his in-depth knowledge of South Carolina's legal system to work for his clients.
"As your attorney, I will carefully investigate every single detail in your case," Bodman said. "I know what evidence to look for and I will vigorously fight for your rights."
What types of drug cases does attorney Bodman handle?
There are many different types of drug charges. The most common ones attorney Bodman handles include:
The criminal justice system has its own unique set of rules. You'll need an attorney like Matt Bodman who understands the rules and regulations involving federal drug charges, which often have specific sentencing guidelines. Whatever type of drug charge you're dealing with, our legal team can help. Schedule a free consultation. Call (866) 487-9077.
When you have an experienced lawyer on your side, you can take an aggressive approach right from the start. Attorneys know how to challenge the validity of the charges against you. If the police searched your house or your vehicle and found illegal drugs, did they follow the law? Did the authorities conduct an illegal search that violated your Fourth Amendment rights, which protect people from unreasonable search and seizure?
These are just some of the important questions attorney Bodman regularly raises when representing clients confronting serious drug charges. Every case is unique. That's why it's important to contact our office if you have been charged with possession of controlled substances, drug trafficking or other serious charges.
Frequently asked questions about drug charges in South Carolina
- What are the most common drug charges?
- Should I consent to a drug search?
- Can I challenge the results of my drug test?
- Should I plead guilty to my drug charge?
- Do you help students facing drug charges?
- Should I hire a lawyer if I'm charged with a drug crime?
What are the most common drug charges?
Drug charges often vary depending on the type of illegal drug and quantity. Drugs like cocaine, heroin and methamphetamines often have much more serious consequences than marijuana charges. Common drug charges in South Carolina include:
- Drug possession
- Drug distribution
- Drug trafficking
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Should I consent to a drug search?
It depends on the circumstances. There is no right or wrong answer. In most cases, the answer is no - do not give permission for police to conduct a search. If police want to search your vehicle or your house for illegal drugs, you have the right to refuse to consent to a search. In the case of your vehicle, you are perfectly within your rights to refuse a police search.
However, there are instances where you should agree to search. If the police say they have a search warrant, politely ask to see the document and then allow the officers to search your home or car. Preventing police with a search warrant from searching your home could result in criminal charges.
Remember, anything police find during a search could be used against you and result in criminal charges.
Can I challenge the results of my drug test?
Yes. Drug test results can be successfully challenged for many reasons. Some of the most common reasons include:
- The drug test was conducted without legal authorization
- The testing device was not operated correctly
- Settings on the testing device were inaccurate
- The test sample was stored improperly
Should I plead guilty to my drug charge?
This depends on the circumstances. You have a right to a jury trial. Matt Bodman reviews all possible outcomes before a decision is made to plea or go to trial. Give yourself the best chance at success. Some of the alternatives available to people include:
- Drug treatment programs
- Probation
- Reduced charges
- Diversion programs that could result in dismissal
- Dismissal
Do you help students facing drug charges?
Yes, if you are a student at one of the Columbia-area schools and have been arrested or charged, talk to us as soon as possible. There is no charge for your consultation.
Should I hire a lawyer if I'm charged with a drug crime?
Yes. You have too much at stake to try to tackle your drug case on your own. When you have an aggressive and experienced lawyer on your side, you can give your case the attention it rightfully deserves.
Attorney Bodman knows the legal system in Columbia, SC inside out. He worked as a prosecutor, which gives him a unique insight into criminal proceedings. He knows how the other side works. An attorney who is well-versed in state and federal drug laws, he understands what types of legal options are available to clients, and he can explain them in detail in person to you.
Make an appointment today and start getting your life back on track. You have too much to lose. Take your drug charge seriously right from the start. Contact our law firm.
